Lighted soft top for a sport utility vehicle or utility task vehicle

ABSTRACT

A soft top assembly for SUV/UTV vehicles having connected thereto at least one lighting source, such as a fixed light emitting diode lighting device, a rope/flexible light emitting diode lighting device, a solid fiber optic lighting device, to illuminate the interior of the vehicle. The lighting device has at least one water resistant housing that is low profile. The lighting device is also shock resistant. The lighting device has a predetermined ON/OFF feature and at least one power source is provided such as battery powered, powered by replaceable/rechargeable batteries, via connection to the vehicle by a wired harness or electrical contacts, or solar powered.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No.62/373,097, Filed Aug. 10, 2016 and U.S. Provisional Application No.62/408,455, Filed Oct. 14, 2016. The disclosures of the aboveapplications are incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a roof with a lighting device for softtop vehicles.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Foldable roof soft tops are commonly used in sport-utility vehicles(SUVs) and utility task vehicles (UTVs) for recreational purposes. Thefoldable roof is typically moveable between at least a sunroof positionand a deployed position. When in the deployed position, the foldableroof covers the vehicle interior to protect the occupants of the vehiclefrom various weather conditions. When in the sunroof position, thefoldable roof rotates rearward such that the vehicle essentiallyfunctions without part of the roof over the front occupant compartment,exposing the interior of the vehicle to the atmosphere. This allows theoccupants of the vehicle to enjoy more favorable weather conditionswhile driving. Some soft tops are also completely retractable and/or canbe removed from the vehicle, when desired. Other soft tops are fixedpanel tops. Yet other soft tops are soft weather shield systems for aenclosing the cockpit, rear seating and/or cargo areas.

The soft top cover material is typically comprised of fabric, twillacrylic fabric, multi-layer sailcloth fabric, or any other suitableflexible material and combinations thereof. However, since it isdifficult to effectively mount components to the soft top cover and toprovide power sources, typical interiors of soft top vehicles often lackamenities such as lighting.

Therefore, there remains a need in the art for a soft top design withlighting. It is also essential to provide a solution that can travelwith and not be damaged by folding, sliding, or otherwise moving of thesoft top cover from the deployed position to the sunroof position orfully retracted position depending on the particular application.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed to a soft top assembly for 4-door and2-door SUVs, UTVs, convertibles or other soft top vehicles. According toone embodiment, the soft top cover is supported by a predetermined framethat is at least partially articulatable from at least a deployed (or“closed”) position to an open air (or “sunroof” or “first retracted”)position. The cover attaches to a header to operably connect the softtop assembly to the windshield frame area of the vehicle. In otherembodiments, the soft top cover is a fixed roof panel, cassette style,cab enclosure, removable soft top, soft weather shield system for acockpit of a vehicle or any other soft tops of any kind. At least onelighting source is provided, preferably, a plurality of lighting devicesare provided on the cover. Most preferably, the lighting source includeslight emitting diodes.

The lighting device preferably has a water resistant housing that is lowprofile. The device is also shock resistant. The lighting device has apredetermined ON/OFF feature and at least one power source is provided.In one embodiment, an auto off feature with a predetermined time delayis provided.

In one embodiment, the lighting source includes at least one fixed LEDlighting device. In another embodiment, the lighting source includes atleast one rope/flexible LED lighting device. In yet another embodiment,the lighting source includes a combination of fixed LEDs andrope/flexible LEDs.

Further areas of applicability of the present invention will becomeapparent from the detailed description provided hereinafter. It shouldbe understood that the detailed description and specific examples, whileindicating the preferred embodiment of the invention, are intended forpurposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope ofthe invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention will become more fully understood from thedetailed description and the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a lighting device, the lighting devicebeing connected to an interior facing surface of a soft top coverconnected to a vehicle depicted in a closed position and having aplurality of fixed LEDs mounted to a housing, according to an embodimentof the present invention;

FIG. 2 is an enlarged perspective view of the lighting device of FIG. 1connected to the soft top cover, with the header removed for clarity, inaccordance with the present invention;

FIG. 3 is a front elevation cross-section illustrating the lightingdevice connected to the soft top cover, according to the presentinvention;

FIG. 4 is a bottom plan view of a lighting device having at least twoLEDs, according to the present invention;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a lighting device in an illuminatedstate, the lighting device connected to an interior facing surface of asoft top cover, depicted in a closed position, connected to a vehicle,and being a flexible rope type with LEDs, in accordance with anotherembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the lighting device of FIG. 5 depictedconnected to the soft top cover in a location nearer the windshieldframe, in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 7A is a bottom plan view of a lighting device, according to anembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 7B is a side elevation view of FIG. 7A;

FIG. 8 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the lighting device ofFIG. 7, according to the present invention;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a lighting device incorporating at leasttwo removable lights, according to another embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the lighting device of FIG. 9 depictingone of the lights being removed from a housing, according to the presentinvention;

FIG. 11 is a bottom perspective view of the removed light of FIG. 10with a rear housing panel removed; according to the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a lighting device incorporating atleast two lighting portions, according to an embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a lighting device incorporating asingle illumination unit, according to another embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a lighting device including fixed LEDs,the lighting device depicted connected to a header of a soft top coverfor a vehicle, according to another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a plurality of lighting devicesconnected to a soft top cover for a vehicle, including a first lightingdevice connected to a header of the cover and incorporating fixed LEDs,a second lighting device connected to the cover and incorporating fixedLEDs, and a third lighting device connected to the cover incorporatingflexible light strips, according to another embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a lighting device incorporatingflexible light strips and a solar device, in accordance with anotherembodiment of the present invention; and

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a soft top cover assembly connected toa vehicle.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The following description of the preferred embodiment(s) is merelyexemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit the invention,its application, or uses.

Referring to FIGS. 1-4 generally, there is provided a soft top coverassembly shown generally at 10 with a header 4 connectable to awindshield frame shown generally at 6 area of a vehicle 8, preferablywith latches attached to footman loops. In accordance with an embodimentof the present invention, at least one lighting device shown generallyat 12 is affixed to the assembly 10 in at least one predeterminedlocation depending on the application. The lighting device 12selectively illuminates the interior of the vehicle.

Each lighting device 12 has at least one illumination portion indicatedgenerally at 13 including at least one light source 14, preferably, atleast one light emitting diode 14, most preferably, a plurality of lightemitting diodes (LED) 14. While three light sources 14 are shown, it isunderstood that more or less than three light sources, e.g., LEDs, canbe used without departing from the scope of the present invention. Eachlighting device 12 also typically has at least one ON/OFF button 16. Anauto off (e.g., about 10-15 minute delay) feature or mechanism ispreferably provided. At least one housing shown generally at 18 isprovided and operably connected to a cover 20 material and/or any otherpart of the soft top cover assembly, e.g., on at least one location on afront header, rear header, cross car bow(s), and/or door rail(s) andcombinations thereof. The material of the cover 20 is fabric, twillacrylic fabric, multi-layer sailcloth fabric and/or any other suitableflexible material or combinations thereof. Alternatively, the cover issolid hard panel(s) that are removable or semi-rigid panel(s) or a rigidframework with soft panel insert/skin(s).

The housing 18 is preferably a multi-piece housing 18 with a firsthousing portion 18 a and second housing portion 18 b, and the housing 18is operable to snap-fit the lighting device 12 to the cover 20. A snapring 22 is provided in one embodiment that snaps below a protrusion 23of the rear housing portion 18 b upon application of load force(indicated at “F”) to capture the cover 20 between the front housingportion 18 a and the snap ring 22 of the rear housing portion 18 b forretention. In another embodiment, the housing 18 is operably sewn to thecover 20 or fit within a pocket formed in the cover 20 leaving the LEDs14 and ON/OFF button 16 exposed to the cabin interior. In anotherembodiment, the housing 18 is bonded to the cover 20 with a suitableadhesive. In yet another embodiment, the housing 18 is connected to thecover 20 by at least one fastener, snap ring(s), sewn, tongue and loop,and/or adhesive(s), adhesive strips, and combinations thereof. The firsthousing portion 18 a has a length and width of generally about 150 to150 mm, typically, about 125 to 125 mm, preferably 100 to 100 mm.Alternative housing 18 shape and dimensions are contemplated dependingon the application without departure from the scope of the presentinvention.

The housing 20 is also a low profile housing to keep headspace and clearviews out at an optimum. Preferably, the housing 20 is a predeterminedthermoplastic material. The housing 20 is also water resistant and shockresistant. The housing 18 is operably sized depending on the applicationand holds the predetermined number of lighting devices 12, e.g., onelighting device or at least two lighting devices.

The lighting device 12 has at least one power source, such as at leastone battery 24 system, solar power device or any other power source andcombinations thereof suitable for powering the LEDs 14 and any otherfeatures of the lighting device 12. The power source 24 preferablyincorporates a replaceable battery or a rechargeable battery.

In one preferred embodiment, the lighting device 12 also has at leastone universal serial bus (USB) port 26 or a USB hub with a plurality ofports. Preferably, the USB port 26 is a micro USB recharge.

Referring now to FIGS. 5-6 generally, there is provided a soft top coverassembly shown generally at 110 with at least one lighting device showngenerally at 112 connected to the assembly, in accordance with anotherembodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, each lightingdevice 112 has at least one illumination portion 113 that is a flexiblerope with at least one light source 114, preferably, a plurality of LEDs114. An ON/OFF power button 116 is provided on a power source 118 thatis connected to the illumination portion 113. Preferably, the powerbutton 116 is on a rechargeable battery pack 118 which is located on anend of the illumination portion 113. However, other power sources, e.g.,solar, and locations for the power source 118 relative to theillumination portion 113 are contemplated depending on the applicationwithout departure from the scope of the present invention. An auto off(e.g., about 10-15 minute delay) feature or mechanism is preferablyprovided.

At least one illumination portion 113 is operably connected to the cover120 in predetermined location(s). FIGS. 5-6 illustrate LED light ropessewn to the deck material. FIG. 5 is a sewn in flexible light toward therear of the front passenger compartment, and, FIG. 6 is a sewn inflexible light toward the front adjacent the header of the cover 110adjacent the windshield frame 6 region.

The flexible illumination portion 113 is generally tubular or ofgenerally circular cross section or can be a flexible strip depending onthe application without departure from the scope of the presentinvention.

The lighting device 112 is generally about 5 to 45 inches long,typically, about 20-45″ long, preferably, at least about 40″ long, mostpreferably, 40-42″ long.

The cover 120 has at least one lighting device, e.g., at least onerope/flexible LED lighting device 112. Alternatively, at least onelighting rope/flexible LED lighting device 112 in combination with atleast one fixed LED lighting device 12, and/or solar powered lightingdevice, and any combinations thereof).

Referring to FIGS. 7A-7B generally, there is provided at least onelighting device shown generally at 212 for the soft top cover assembly110 (i.e., operably connected to a predetermined location on the cover120 interior depicted in FIGS. 5-6 in addition to lighting device 112 orrather than lighting device 112), in accordance with another embodimentof the present invention. In this embodiment, each lighting device 212has at least one illumination portion 213 that is a flexible strand witha plurality of light sources 214, preferably, a plurality of LEDs 214.The illumination portion 213 is operably connected to the cover 120 at apredetermined location, e.g., sewn in at any of a plurality of locationsof the soft cover, connected in locations depicted in FIGS. 5-6, and/oradhered, bonded, fastened or otherwise suitably connected to any otherpart of the soft top cover assembly 110 such as on a front header, rearheader, cross car bow(s), and/or door rail(s) and any combinationsthereof.

Each lighting device 212 also typically has at least one ON/OFF button216. An auto off (e.g., about 10-15 minute delay) feature is preferablyprovided. At least one housing shown generally at 218 is provided andoperably connected to the cover 220 material or header 4 (e.g., adhesiveand/or sewn and/or base placed inside a pocket or cutout, using asnap-ring, as set forth previously, etc). This housing 218 has theON/OFF button(s) 216. In a most preferred embodiment, there are twoON/OFF buttons 216,216 a provided on the housing 218, each ON/OFF button216,216 a controlling a respective half of the illumination portion 213.The first ON/OFF button 216 controls a first half 213 b of theillumination portion 213 and the second ON/OFF button 216 a controls asecond half 213 a of the illumination portion 213. By way of example, adriver can use the first ON/OFF button 216 to illuminate the first half213 b over the driver side of the vehicle. The second ON/OFF button 216a can be left off or can additionally be used to illuminate the secondhalf 213 b over the passenger side of the vehicle, or vice versa. Anauto off (e.g., about 10-15 minute delay) feature or mechanism ispreferably provided.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the lighting device212 has at least one solar panel 220 operably connected to the housing218 as a power source. Alternatively, the power source is a battery,such as a replaceable battery or a rechargeable battery. The housing 218preferably has a micro USB recharge 222. The lighting device 212 mostpreferably is a solar LED device with at least one solar panel 220exposed to at least the cabin interior when in the closed position (andto the open air when in an open sunroof position, depending on theapplication).

The material of the cover 220 is fabric, twill acrylic fabric,multi-layer sailcloth fabric and/or any other suitable flexible materialor combinations thereof. Alternatively, the cover is solid hard panel(s)or semi-rigid panel(s) or a rigid framework with soft panelinsert/skin(s), etc.

The lighting device 212 is generally about 5 to 45 inches long,typically, about 20-45″ long, preferably, at least about 40″ long, mostpreferably, 40-42″ long. Shorter or longer ropes 213 are contemplatedwithout departure from the present invention. The cover 220 has at leastone lighting device (at least one rope/flexible LED 212, and,alternatively, at least one lighting rope/flexible LED 212 incombination with at least one fixed LED 12 and/or in combination with atleast one flexible strand 213). LED strips, e.g., singularly arranged orarranged end-to-end or side-by-side and combinations thereof, are alsocontemplated depending on the application without departure from thepresent invention.

Referring to FIG. 8 generally, there is shown a cross sectional view ofthe illumination portion 213 for attachment to the cover 220 using atleast one web strap 230. There is provided at least one LED strip 232overlaid by at least one layer 234 of material, e.g., a clear film, awhite film, acrylic sheet, or any other suitable translucent ortransparent material, etc. Other materials 234 are contemplateddepending on the particular application without departing from the scopeof the present invention. The web strap 230, e.g., polyester web strap,is wrapped around the bottom surface of the LED strip 232 and part wayacross the top surface of the overlay layer 234, leaving the area fortransmission from the light sources 214 exposed to illuminate thevehicle interior, and operably fastened in place by a plurality offasteners 236 through the web strap 230 and layer 232 with the LED strip232 therebetween. Alternatively, the fasteners 236 also extend throughthe LED strip 213. It is understood that fasteners, sewing, adhesive,etc and combinations thereof can be used to connect the web strap 230 tothe strip 232, layer 234 depending on the application without departurefrom the scope of the present invention.

Referring now to FIGS. 9-11 generally, according to another embodimentof the present invention, there is provided at least one lighting deviceshown generally at 312 of a soft top cover assembly for connecting to atleast one predetermined location, respectively, of the soft top coverassembly (i.e., connected to the cover 20 or header 4 of the soft topcover assembly 10 depicted in FIG. 1) to selectively illuminate theinterior of the vehicle. Each lighting device 312 includes at least twoillumination portions shown generally at 313, each with at least onelighting source 314, e.g., fixed LEDs, preferably, a plurality of LEDs314. While three light sources 314 are shown for each illuminationportion 313, it is understood that more or less than three lightsources, e.g., LEDs, can be used depending on the application withoutdeparting from the scope of the present invention. Further, it isunderstood that the lighting device 312 is adaptable to accommodate morethan two illumination portions 313 depending on the application withoutdeparting from the scope of the present invention.

Each lighting device 312 also typically has at least one ON/OFF button316. An auto off (e.g., about 10-15 minute delay) feature or mechanismis preferably provided. Preferably, each illumination portion 313 hasits own ON/OFF button 316,316 to selectively turn either portion on/offat different times. At least one housing shown generally at 318 isprovided. The housing 318 is integrally formed or is integrated withmultiple housings, e.g., such as a base 320 and upper housing 322,fastened together with at least one fastener 324. The housing 318 isoperably connected to the header 4 of the assembly 10 and/or covermaterial 20 and/or any other part of the soft top cover assembly, e.g.,on at least one location on a front header, rear header, cross carbow(s), and/or door rail(s) and combinations thereof.

The illumination portions 313 are selectively removable for replacement,repair or maintenance. The housing 318 has at least two chambers 326 toreceive a body 328 of the illumination portions 313, respectively. Atleast two tabs 330 on the end of each illumination portion 313 arereceived within notches formed in the housing 318 and the illuminationportion body 328 fits into the chamber 326. At least one aperture 332 isprovided in the body 328 to receive a fastener 334 to connect the otherend of each illumination portion 313 body 328 to the housing 318.

The removable lights 312 each have at least one power source. The powersource is preferably a battery, such as a replaceable battery or arechargeable battery. In another embodiment, a solar power device isprovided. In yet another embodiment, the power source is a replaceablebattery or a rechargeable battery in combination with a solar panel.

In one embodiment, at least one universal serial bus (USB) port or a USBhub with a plurality of ports is also provided.

FIGS. 9-10 generally depict a lighting device 312 assembly having anouter housing 318 with a double light member 313 that is removable(alternatively, fixed), operably connected to the outer housing 318.FIG. 10 illustrates the illumination portion 313 in the process of beingremoved. FIG. 11 illustrates the back of the illumination portion 313having a servicing panel 336 removed exposing the circuitry, showngenerally at 338, and power source, indicated generally at 340, of theillumination portion 313.

FIG. 12 is identical to FIG. 9, however, the base 350 and upper housing322 are integrally formed.

Referring now to FIG. 13 generally, there is shown a lighting device 412of a soft top cover assembly (i.e., where the device is connected to thecover 20 or header 4 of the soft top cover assembly 10 depicted inFIG. 1) that incorporates a single illumination portion shown generallyat 413, in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.The illumination portion 413 has at least one lighting source 414, e.g.,fixed LEDs, preferably, a plurality of LEDs 414. While three lightsources 414 are shown, it is understood that more or less than threelight sources, e.g., LEDs, can be used depending on the applicationwithout departing from the scope of the present invention.

The illumination portion 413 also typically has at least one ON/OFFbutton 416. An auto off (e.g., about 10-15 minute delay) feature ormechanism is preferably provided.

At least one housing shown generally at 418 is provided with multiplehousings, e.g., such as a base 420 and upper housing 422, fastenedtogether with at least one fastener or that are integrally formed. Thebase 420 is operably connected (e.g., adhesive and/or sewn and/or base420 placed inside a pocket or cutout, using a snap-ring as set forthpreviously, etc) to the header 4 of the assembly 10 and/or covermaterial 20 and/or any other part of the soft top cover assembly, e.g.,on at least one location on a front header, rear header, cross carbow(s), and/or door rail(s) and combinations thereof.

The illumination portion 413 includes a plurality of tabs 330 that arereceived within notches formed in the housing and the illuminationportion 413 fits into the chamber of the housing, as set forthpreviously and identical to FIG. 10, and is connected to the housing byat least one fastener 424. The illumination portion 413 is selectivelyremovable for replacement, repair or maintenance.

The illumination portion 413 has at least one power source. The powersource is preferably a battery, such as a replaceable battery or arechargeable battery. In another embodiment, a solar power device isprovided. In yet another embodiment, the power source is a replaceablebattery or a rechargeable battery in combination with a solar panel.

In one embodiment, at least one universal serial bus (USB) port or a USBhub with a plurality of ports is also provided.

Referring now to FIG. 14 generally, there is shown another embodimenthaving at least one lighting device depicted generally at 512 operablyconnected to the header 4 of the soft top cover assembly indicatedgenerally at 510. The lighting device is inserted in or attached to theheader 4. The lighting device 512 includes at least one illuminationportion 513 that has at least one lighting source 514, e.g., fixed LEDs,preferably, a plurality of LEDs 514. The illumination portion 513 alsotypically has at least one ON/OFF button 516. An auto off (e.g., about10-15 minute delay) feature or mechanism is preferably provided.

At least one housing shown generally at 518 is provided and operablyconnected, e.g., by at least one fastener and/or adhesive and/or snapring, to the header 4. According to one embodiment, the housing 518 isadhered or fastened to the header 4 of a cover 520. In anotherembodiment, the housing 518 is partially inserted into the header 4 andfastened thereto. In one embodiment, the housing 518 is operable tosnap-fit the lighting device 512 to the header. Similarly as set forthpreviously and depicted in FIG. 3, a snap ring 22 is provided that snapsbelow a protrusion 23 of a rear housing portion of the housing 518 uponapplication of load force, however, it is the header 4 wall whichcaptured between the front housing portion and the snap ring 22 of therear housing portion for retention.

The lighting device 512 has at least one power source, such as at leastone battery 24 system, solar power device or any other power source andcombinations thereof suitable for powering the LEDs 514 and any otherfeatures of the lighting device 512. The power source preferablyincorporates a replaceable battery or a rechargeable battery.

In one preferred embodiment, the lighting device 512 also has at leastone universal serial bus (USB) port 26 or a USB hub with a plurality ofports.

While one lighting device 512 is depicted connected to the header 4, itis understood that at least two lighting devices 512 can be used andconnected to the header 4 (or any other location the front header, rearheader, cross car bow(s), cover, and/or door rail(s), or any otherlocation, and combinations thereof).

Referring now to FIG. 15 generally, there is provided at least onelighting device shown generally at 612 operably connected to a soft topcover assembly shown generally 620, in accordance with anotherembodiment of the present invention. The lighting device 612 has atleast one illumination portion shown generally at 613 that incorporatesat least one flexible lighted strip 626 having a plurality of lightsources, preferably, LEDs, within the strips. Preferably, at least oneflexible lighted strip of material, e.g., clear or translucent film orcasing, with LEDs is used. At least one ON/OFF power button 616. An autooff (e.g., about 10-15 minute delay) feature or mechanism is preferablyprovided, according to an embodiment of the invention.

The illumination portion 613 has at least one flexible lighted strip 626connected to a housing shown generally at 618. Preferably, theillumination portion 613 has a first half 613 a controlled by one powersource button 616 and a second half 613 b controlled by another powersource button 616. The first half 613 a and second half 613 b areoperably connected to at least one housing 618 having the ON/OFF powerbuttons 616,616. The housing 618 has a base 620 and upper housing 622operably connected to the assembly 620. Preferably, a power source thatis a replaceable or rechargeable battery located within the housing 618is provided. However, other power sources, e.g., solar, and locationsfor the power source relative to the illumination portion 613 arecontemplated depending on the application without departure from thescope of the present invention. Alternatively, the lighting device 612has a single flexible strip 626 light source connected to the housing618 to form the lighting device 612.

The illumination portion 613 preferably has a web strip 624 operablyconnected to the cover 620 of the assembly 610. Preferably, the webstrip is nylon or polyester. The flexible strip 626 light source isoperably connected to the web strip 624, e.g., sewn and/or bonded with asuitable adhesive, or connected by at least one fastener, snap ring(s),sewn, tongue and loop, and/or adhesive strips, or other suitableconnection or combinations thereof.

The lighting device 612 is generally about 5 to 45 inches long,typically, about 20-45″ long, preferably, at least about 40″ long, mostpreferably, 40-42″ long.

At least one lighting device 612 is connected to the assembly 620,preferably to the cover 610. However, the lighting device 612 isadaptable for connection to any of a plurality of predeterminedlocation, e.g., on at least one location on a front header, rear header,cross car bow(s), and/or door rail(s) and combinations thereof.

Optionally, at least one additional lighting device is provided. FIG. 15depicts a lighting device 512 connected to the header 4 and light device12 connected to the cover 610, as described previously, where likenumbers indicate like parts. However, at least one of any of theaforementioned lighting devices and any predetermined locations withinthe interior of the vehicle is contemplated without departure from thepresent invention, e.g., front header, rear header, cross car bow(s),fabric management bows, door rail(s), pivotal sunroof frame portions,sport bars, center cross member, and/or cover material and combinationsthereof. While three lighting devices are shown, it is understood thatmore or less than three lighting devices, and any of a variety ofcombinations of lighting devices, are contemplated depending on theapplication without departure from the scope of the present invention.

Referring now to FIG. 16 generally, where like numbers indicate likeparts, as set forth previously, there is provided at least one lightingdevice shown generally at 712 that incorporates solar power, inaccordance with another embodiment of the present invention. At leastone solar 714 is operably incorporated with the housing 618 to power thelighting device 712.

Optionally, at least one additional lighting device is provided. FIG. 16depicts a lighting device 512 connected to the header 4 and light device12 connected to the cover 610, as described previously, where likenumbers indicate like parts. However, at least one of any of theaforementioned lighting devices and any predetermined locations withinthe interior of the vehicle is contemplated without departure from thepresent invention, e.g., front header, rear header, cross car bow(s),fabric management bows, door rail(s), pivotal sunroof frame portions,sport bars, center cross member, and/or cover material and combinationsthereof. While three lighting devices are shown, it is understood thatmore or less than three lighting devices, and any of a variety ofcombinations of lighting devices, are contemplated depending on theapplication without departure from the scope of the present invention.

FIG. 17 depicts an exemplary vehicle 8 with a soft top cover assembly(e.g., 10, 110, 510, 620) connected to the vehicle.

Referring to the figures generally, the cover is operably coupled to theheader, according to an embodiment of the present invention. Preferably,the soft panel top assembly is secured to a windshield frame with quickrelease latches. Any other alternative attachment location and featuresdepending on the application are contemplated without departing from thescope of the present invention. Preferably, the soft panel top assemblyis secured at the rear to a rear header or rear bow. The soft panel topassembly is preferably moveable between at least a closed, latchedposition and an open, sunroof position, according to an embodiment ofthe present invention. The soft panel top assembly covers the rearpassenger compartment, according to an embodiment of the presentinvention. While some of the drawings generally depict the cover regionover the front cockpit compartment, it is understood that any embodimentcan be adapted to incorporate attachment in the rear passengercompartment and/or cargo area. In general, there is provided a soft topcover assembly including at least one lighting device, in accordancewith any embodiment of the present invention. The soft top assemblypreferably includes a pivotal sunroof portion connected to a linkageassembly or other structure for rotation such that the cover is moveablebetween an open and closed position. While a soft top is described, itis understood that the present invention is not limited to a soft toponly. The top can be a folding/stowable soft top, sunroof soft top,folding/slidable soft top, front/rear/cargo roof soft top, front cockpitcover, rear passenger cover, cargo cover, fixed roof panels, hard toppanels, front and/or rear hard top, 3-piece hardtop, cassette style, cabenclosure, removable soft top, sunroof shade, shade, soft weather shieldsystem for enclosing a cockpit, rear seating and/or cargo areas of avehicle, slant back soft top, or any other tops of any kind needinginterior lighting without departure from the present invention.

Referring to the figures generally, incorporating a predetermined fixedframe or a frame for articulation the cover 20, 120, 520, 610 to atleast the sunroof position and attachment to the vehicle and/or weatherresistant sealing engagement with the vehicle (e.g., sport bars and/orrear header, bow(s), and/or hard top, etc.) is within the scope of thepresent invention.

The 2-door and 4-door descriptions described herein are not limiting. Itis understood that any embodiment, and combinations thereof, describedherein can be modified and is/are utilizable on any convertible, 2-dooror 4-door SUV vehicle, UTV, etc.

In one embodiment, the lighting source includes at least one fixed LEDlighting device. In another embodiment, the lighting source includes atleast one rope/flexible LED lighting device. In another embodiment, thelighting source includes at least one flexible LED strip lightingdevice. In yet another embodiment, the lighting source includes acombination of fixed LEDs and/or rope/flexible LEDs and/or flexible LEDstrips. Other lighting sources are contemplated depending on theparticular SUV/UTV/other vehicle application without departing from thescope of the present invention.

In any of the aforementioned embodiments, more than one light setting,when desired, is contemplated without departure from the presentinvention, e.g., at least a low intensity and high intensity selection.Colored LEDs and combinations of different color LEDs are alsocontemplated without departure from the present invention. Incorporatingadditional electronics, navigation, communication, storage, etc into thelighting device unit or housing is also contemplated without departurefrom the present invention.

In any of the aforementioned embodiments, preferably all are batterypowered and/or receive power by replaceable/rechargeable batteriesand/or a connection to the vehicle via a wired harness or electricalcontacts in the assembly that make contact when closing the soft topassembly sunroof feature.

In any of the aforementioned embodiments, replacing the LED style pointlights with a solid fiber optic style element is contemplated withoutdeparture from the scope of the present invention.

The description of the invention is merely exemplary in nature and,thus, variations that do not depart from the gist of the invention areintended to be within the scope of the invention. Such variations arenot to be regarded as a departure from the spirit and scope of theinvention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A soft top assembly with lighting for a vehicle,comprising: at least one lighting device operably connected to at leastone predetermined location on the soft top assembly to selectivelyilluminate the vehicle interior, said at least one lighting deviceincluding at least one illumination portion with at least one lightsource that illuminates the vehicle interior when powered on.
 2. Thesoft top assembly with lighting of claim 1, further comprising a cover,wherein said at least one lighting device is operably connected to thecover.
 3. The soft top assembly with lighting of claim 1, furthercomprising a header operably connected to a cover, wherein the lightingdevice is operably connected to the header.
 4. The soft top assemblywith lighting of claim 1, wherein the at least one lighting device issewn and/or bonded with adhesive to the soft top assembly.
 5. The softtop assembly with lighting of claim 1, wherein each illumination portionof the at least one lighting device includes a plurality of lightsources that are a plurality of fixed light emitting diodes or solidfiber optics.
 6. The soft top assembly with lighting of claim 1,comprising at least two of the illumination portions, wherein eachillumination portion includes at least one light source.
 7. The soft topassembly with lighting of claim 6, wherein the at least one light sourceis a plurality of fixed light emitting diodes.
 8. The soft top assemblywith lighting of claim 6, wherein each illumination portion includes aflexible strip, and wherein the at least one light source is a pluralityof flexible light emitting diodes operably connected to the flexiblestrip.
 9. The soft top assembly with lighting of claim 1, wherein eachlighting device is a fixed light emitting diode device with a pluralityof light sources that are light emitting diodes.
 10. The soft topassembly with lighting of claim 1, wherein each lighting device is aflexible rope light emitting diode device with a plurality of lightsources that are light emitting diodes.
 11. The soft top assembly withlighting of claim 1, wherein the at least one lighting device furthercomprises at least one housing that is a water resistant low profilehousing containing a plurality of light emitting diodes.
 12. The softtop assembly with lighting of claim 1, wherein the at least one lightingdevice further comprises at least one ON/OFF feature to selectively turnthe lighting device ON/OFF.
 13. The soft top assembly with lighting ofclaim 12, wherein the at least one ON/OFF feature includes an ON/OFFbutton and incorporates an auto off having a predetermined timed delaymechanism to automatically power the lighting device off.
 14. The softtop assembly with lighting of claim 13, wherein the timed delay is about10-15 minutes.
 15. The soft top assembly with lighting of claim 1,wherein the at least one lighting device further comprises at least onepower source selected from the group consisting of a replaceablebattery, a replaceable/rechargeable battery, a solar panel andcombinations thereof.
 16. The soft top assembly with lighting of claim1, wherein the at least one lighting device further comprises at leastone charging port.
 17. The soft top assembly with lighting of claim 1,further comprising a flexible vehicle overhead cover, and, wherein theat least one lighting device further comprises at least one housing withat least one protrusion and includes a snap ring to operably connect theat least one lighting device to the flexible vehicle overhead coverusing the snap ring positioned below the at least one protrusion to holdthe flexible vehicle overhead cover between a first housing portion andthe at least one protrusion.
 18. The soft top assembly with lighting ofclaim 1, further comprising at least one flexible web strip sewn and/orbonded with adhesive to a cover of the assembly, said at least oneflexible web strip including a plurality of light emitting diodesoperably connected to the flexible web strip.
 19. The soft top assemblywith lighting of claim 1, wherein the lighting device is a rope/flexiblelight emitting diode device that is sewn into a cover of the soft topassembly.
 20. The soft top assembly with lighting of claim 19, whereinthe lighting device further comprises: at least one LED strip of aplurality of LEDs; at least one web strap; and at least one film stripoverlaying the LED strip; wherein the web strap is wrapped around abottom of the LED strip and partly over the top of the film strip andoperably fastened to the film strip to allow light transmission from theplurality of LEDs.
 21. A soft top assembly with lighting forsport/utility task vehicles, comprising: at least one soft top coverwith a header operably connected to the soft top cover; a plurality oflighting devices, each lighting device including at least oneillumination portion with a plurality of light sources, respectively,wherein said plurality of lighting devices are operably connected to thesoft top cover material and/or to the header for selectivelyilluminating the vehicle interior.
 22. A soft top assembly with lightingfor a vehicle, comprising: a soft top cover including a header; at leastone lighting device including a plurality of light sources, wherein saidat least one lighting device is operably connected to the soft topcover; at least one micro universal serial bus recharge port provided ona housing of the at least one lighting device; at least one power sourceincorporated with the housing of the at least one lighting device topower the at least one lighting device.